Something about one year ending and another beginning is a time when some of us decide to make a fresh start. ‘Out with the old, in with the new’ is the mantra. Those of us who are more cynical may respond to this phenomenon as just some good intentions that will be long forgotten by the time tax season arrives.

Change can be extremely difficult! Whether it is a personal or professional goal realistic expectations, a good plan, and the right support are all useful in making steps toward that change. But I wonder if there might be another way to experience change. Could focusing on the process of change be beneficial? Can focusing on the present experience be more insightful than focusing on some far away goal?

With a little over a month away from the New Year, might it be helpful to accept a ‘no changes policy?’ Instead of waiting until January to start the process of change, you can start now by deciding not to change. Have an honest look at your motivations on why you would want this change. What part of you doesn’t want this change to happen? How much of yourself can you love and accept without this change? What do you think will happen if this change happens? What are your expectations? Are they realistic? If January rolls in and you still want to make changes, allow yourself to accept the process and the choices you make.